The Advance Australia Strategy is set to be redesigned in 2026 as part of the next phase of its evolution.
Introduced in 2023, HRA’s Strategy was developed to promote all aspects of the Australian harness racing industry - headlined by the TAB Eureka - and is primarily funded through the Stallion Registration Levy.
Whilst the TAB Eureka will return in 2026, its stakes will be lowered to $1.5 million - maintaining its status as the world’s richest race – and will take up a new slot on the Australian harness racing calendar at the end of November to serve as a true Grand Final for the nation’s best 3YO and 4YO horses.
HRA Chair Graeme Campbell OAM said the upcoming redesign of the Advance Australia Strategy was an important milestone for the industry.
“The TAB Eureka has been a phenomenal success which has exceeded all of our expectations,” Mr Campbell said.
“When we created the Advance Australia Strategy, we wanted to develop a flag bearing race that would create national interest, and it’s done just that.
“At the same time, we want to ensure that all sectors of the industry are benefiting from the Stallion Registration Levy so now is the time to take a deeper look at the Advance Australia Strategy and to ensure it remains fit for purpose.”
With Queensland hosting the Inter Dominion on a three-year agreement, HRA provided $200k in funding in 2025 to ensure a $1 million Pacing Final could be staged at Albion Park.
Its investment is poised to continue under the redesigned Advance Australia Strategy.
“The TAB Eureka was developed to provide increased promotion and interest in our industry,” Mr Campbell said.
“But the Inter Dominion is an iconic brand that remains the pinnacle for our open class horses and our strategic investment delivers yet another $1 million race on the feature calendar.
“By investing in the Inter Dominion, and not just The Eureka, we have twice as many opportunities to showcase the pinnacle of our sport.”
In addition to prize money changes, the TAB Eureka will find a new slot on the calendar with the race to be held at Club Menangle in late November.
Slot fees for the TAB Eureka will also reduce to $75k apiece with HRA to open up an Expression of Interest for prospective slot holders under a two-year commitment.
“It makes strategic sense to ensure the TAB Eureka is a true Grand Final for our 3YO and 4YO horses,” Mr Campbell said.
“By staging the race in late November, our 3YOs are a little stronger and a little more mature, whilst providing slot holders with more exposed form to ensure the best field possible.
“From a promotional viewpoint, we also find a strong place in the Australian sporting calendar, not just the racing calendar, with a view to casting more eyes on our industry.”
HRA will make further announcements on the Expression of Interest process for the TAB Eureka in the near future.
